Seoul/Gangnam-Seocho

' Gangnam' (강남) is the central neighborhood of the southern half of Seoul. Though Jongno and Jung to the north may claim to be the center of Seoul, in many ways Gangnam is the true center, of both Seoul and the entire country. Believe it or not, fifty years ago this entire area was Rice paddies and pear farms. Everything you see here has been built since then and the construction mirroring South Korea's rapid economic rise. This neighborhood has become famous worldwide due to South Korean singer Psy's hit song "Gangnam Style".

This area was formerly spelled as Kangnam and this may still be seen in many addresses.

The other half of the Greater Gangnam Area is Seocho (서초), which is an upscale residential area and home to the headquarters of the electronics giant Samsung.

Seoul/Gangnam-Seocho Halal Travel Guide

Gangnam in and of itself is large enough to split into two main neighborhoods, Apgujeongdong and Cheongdamdong to the north, and Gangnam/Tehranro/Samseongdong to the south.

Apgujeongdong and Cheongdamdong are both by the Han River, and earn the distinction of being perhaps the richest neighborhoods in all of Korea. Posh cafes, brand name handbags, Mercedes and Porsches, ritzy department stores, and rows upon rows of luxury brand clothing stores characterize this neighborhood. Unsurprisingly, many of Korea's movie stars and singers make their home here, and are occasionally spotted enjoying some Patbingsu or sporting new sunglasses. There is also a sizable nightlife scene here, though it is relatively laid back compare to the chaos that is Hongdae and Sinchon. Most of it caters to upper-class Korean teenagers and young adults. Strangely enough and the apartment buildings here look no different from the rest of the city; if anything and the apartment buildings here are some of the oldest and shabbiest looking. This can be explained by the fact that the upper-class elite who reside here are fiercely opposed to new renovations and expansions, as they fear an influx of new residents will drive housing prices down and make the area unbearably crowded.

Tehranro, in stark contrast, is a long avenue with many glass skyscrapers running along both sides. Nicknamed "Tehranro Valley", after Silicon Valley, most of Korea's hi-tech companies are headquartered here, such as Naver and Samsung. The east end of Tehranro is Samseong Station, which has COEX and Bongeun Temple. Seolleung Station, in the center, has a park with some ancient royal tombs. The west end of Tehranro is Gangnam Station and the busiest subway station in the nation. The station opens onto Gangnamro, a futuristic avenue that is bursting with modern skyscrapers, high-end shopping (though high-end as Apgujeongdong), cafes, restaurants, huge television screens, neon advertisements, and thousands of pedestrians drinking it all in. Strangely overlooked by many visitors and the Seoul Government as a tourist attraction, Gangnamro truly epitomizes the modern, hi-tech country Korea has become in the past 60 years.

Travel to Seoul/Gangnam-Seocho

By bus

There is a large express bus terminal GPS 37.506385,127.008303 under the JW Marriott hotel in Seocho.

By metro

Seoul has one of the world's most extensive metro systems, and Gangnam is well served by it.

By train

You can use Suseo station GPS 37.487274,127.101300, which has SRT (high speed rail) service.

What to See

Bongeun Temple - 봉은사, 奉恩寺 | 73 Samseong-dong, Gangnam-gu 37.515407, 127.056169 free Traditionally an important Buddhist temple with rich history in a rural outskirt of old Seoul and the temple is now the biggest, richest, and the most visited temple in Seoul as the area near the temple, Gangnam, transformed from Rice field backwater in 80s to the most ritzy and opulent borough in South Korea. The temple has an impressive array of Buddhist buildings and sculptures, and it provides a quiet resting and pray place to tourists and local residents alike in middle of skyscrapers and shopping miles.

COEX 37.510198, 127.059430 Metro Line 2, Samseong Station. This very large mall is in Samsung-dong. This state-of-the-art complex was designed for international conferences, and holds 150 specialized exhibitions and 15,000 conventions/events a year. The centre also plays a role in promoting international trade by connecting international buyers with local businesses. A variety of stores and attractions can be found in the COEX including: the COEX Aquarium; a large Asian-style "luxury" cinema; a traditional video game arcade; a PC Lounge; hair and nail salons; a large bookstore with many Korean, English, and Japanese publications; and a pharmacy. There are also shopping options in COEX and include men's and women's clothing, jewellery, sportswear, souvenirs, shoes, and electronics. As far as food options and there is a large food court serving several types of contemporary and traditional food cafeteria-style, and Western chains such as TGI Friday's (Please do not support TGI Friday's as TGI Friday's supports Israel. Shun this restaurant group and go for alternative brands and if possible for a Muslim owned restaurant), as well as restaurants, hofs, and cafes all throughout the interior and exterior of the COEX. The COEX is also directly connected to the COEX Intercontinental Hotel and the City Air Terminal. Yearly conventions at the COEX include online gaming conventions (such as the popular Korean-originated MMORPG Lineage), anime conventions, and auto shows. It is feasible to spend the entire day in this covered mall without setting foot outside, which can be a blessing if very bad weather hits outside.

LG Arts Center - 679 Yeoksam, 1 Dong 37.50081, 127.03694 Metro line #2, Yeoksam Station, Exit 7 ☎ +82 2 2005 0114 - Modern, multi-purpose performing arts auditorium opened in 2000, features live musical and theatre and dance performances from Korea and worldwide. Visit website for performance schedule and ticket information. Underground parking is available.
Seoul Art Center - 37.47861, 127.01131 - 700 Seocho-dong, Gangnam-gu, (line 3 Nambu Bus Terminal stn). Another great place for performing arts and Korean traditional art.
Yangjae Citizen's Forest 37.471695, 127.035205 Sinbudang Line, Yangjae Citizen's Forest Station - You will find a forest on your right if you drive through Gangnam Street. It's a park with streams and a clear view of the sky. There are over 106,600 trees planted in it, and it's a very popular picnic spot for young students. A little out of the way, but accessible by commuter rail, and it's a nice way to escape the hustle and bustle of Gangnam.
Seonjeongneung Royal Tombs - 선정릉 | 1, Seolleung-ro 100-gil, 특별시 강남구 선릉로100길 1 (삼성동) 37.508547, 127.048981 Seolleung Station, Exit 8 Opening Hours: Mar - Oct 06:00-21:00 / Nov - February 06:30-21:00 (Closed Mondays) Tranquil park in the middle of Gangnam with the burial mounds of two kings and a queen from the Joseon dynasty.

Things to Do

Park Club Spa & Fitness Centre - Park Hyatt Seoul Hotel, 995-14 Daechi 3 - dong Gangnam - gu ☎ +82 2 2016 1234
Seven Luck Casino - Metro line #2, Samseong Station | 37.508611, 127.039971 - This branch is attached to the COEX shopping complex. The casinos are only accessible to Foreign Muslims (it is illegal for Korean citizens to gamble), so remember to bring your passport. Various card tables and slots are available to play. There is a and cafe that serve food and fruit drinks, although expensive.
Son's Home - 손즈홈 | Yeoksam Station, Exit 3. Five minutes walk ☎ +82 2 562 6829 | Opening Hours: 10:30-13:30, 17:00-20:00 (Groups of at least 5 only). Closed W. Lessons are ₩70,000, ₩60,000 children under 15 Son's Home specializes in teaching kimchi preparation.
World Comic Convention - Comic World | 37.4958, 127.0719 Metro Line 3, Hangyeoul station - Twice a month the SETEC convention center hosts Seoul's World Comic con Festival. Admission is 4,000₩ but the inside is rather bland unless you are extremely familiar with Japanese and Korean anime. Your best option is to go during convention hours and mingle with the crowds of Korean teenagers in elaborate cosplay costumes dressed as their favorite anime characters. Most are excited to see foreigners and very glad to have their pictures taken. As mentioned, this convention only takes place twice a month, so check the website (Korean only) to make sure it will be in session while you are in Seoul.
World Gym 765-2 Yeosam-Dong, Kangnam-Gu Closest metro is Hanti - The gym is OK, equipment is very 80s but has dumbbells which go up to 50 kg, two smith machines and a couple of benches among other machines.

Muslim Friendly Shopping in Seoul/Gangnam-Seocho

Apgujeong (압구정), widely known as "The Beverly Hills of Seoul" is the land of luxury, brand name goods. International brands like Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Dior, Gucci and Prada sit alongside Korean designer brands.

Hyundai Department Store - 429 Apgujeong-dong, Gangnam-gu 37.508573, 127.060654 subway line 3 Apgujeong ☎ +82 2 547-2233 | Opening Hours: Monday - Sunday 10:30AM Monday - 8PM Main store of well-known department store chain.
Galleria | 515 Apgujeong-dong, Gangnam-gu A very popular upscale department store. Just several blocks away from Hyundai Department Store. Also has a branch in Seoul Station.

Near the Cheongdam Intersection GPS 37.524223,127.047328 lies the heart of the Korean shoe scene. Cutting edge shoe shops include Sue Comma Bonnie, Hyaang, Heels and Namuhana.

Famous for its designer clothing boutiques and unique galleries, Garuso-gil GPS 37.5205746,127.0229268 (가로수 길) is definitely worth a visit. As the main street is adorned by ginkgo trees and the meaning of its name, tree-lined street, is quite literal. Stores of international clothing brands, Korean designers, ateliers, cafés, and restaurants co-exist in this about 750m long street in Sinsa-dong. The easiest way to get to Garuso-gil is by taking the subway to Sinsa station GPS 37.516286,127.020021 (Exit 8) or Apgujeong station GPS 37.527066,127.028438 (Exit 5), both being stations of Line 3.

Masjids in Seoul

Seoul is home to a growing Muslim community, with several mosques and Islamic centers catering to the spiritual needs of Muslims living in or visiting the city. Here are some of the notable masjids in Seoul:

1. Seoul Central Mosque

Rating: 4.8 (4,120 reviews)
Location: 39 Usadan-ro 10-gil, Itaewon
Opened: 1976

The Seoul Central Mosque is the oldest and most prominent mosque in South Korea, situated in Itaewon. It serves as a central hub for the Muslim community in Seoul, offering daily prayers, Friday sermons, and Islamic education. The mosque’s location in Itaewon makes it easily accessible and near many Halal restaurants. The modern architecture and significance of this mosque make it a key landmark for Muslims in the region.

2. Masjid Al-Falah, Seoul

Rating: 4.8 (43 reviews)
Location: 186-356 Singil-dong

Masjid Al-Falah is located in Singil-dong and is open 24 hours. It provides a peaceful place for Muslims to perform their prayers and is well-known for its quiet, spiritual ambiance. The masjid is smaller compared to Seoul Central Mosque but remains important to the local Muslim community.

3. Sinchon Masjid and Islamic Center

Rating: 4.6 (17 reviews)
Location: 20 Sinchon-ro 24an-gil

Located in the vibrant Sinchon area, this mosque is a convenient prayer space for Muslims, particularly those near the universities. It serves both as a masjid and an Islamic center, offering a variety of activities and services for Muslims in the area. It is also open 24 hours.

4. Masjid Noor Sejong University

Rating: 4.8 (23 reviews)
Location: 11 Dongil-ro 56-gil

This mosque is located near Sejong University and provides a space for Muslim students and staff to perform their prayers. It's also a quiet and serene place for local Muslims. The mosque operates 24 hours, catering to the needs of the community.

5. Sejong University Mosque

Rating: 4.9 (29 reviews)
Location: Gunja-dong, 111-1 103B

Another prayer space near Sejong University, this mosque is well-loved by the local community and provides prayer services throughout the day. It closes at 9:20 PM but offers a peaceful and welcoming environment for Muslims.

6. Yongsan Mosque

Location: 22-9 Hangangno 3(sam)-ga

Located in Yongsan, this mosque does not have many reviews but is an important prayer space for Muslims living or working in the Yongsan district. It offers daily prayers and Friday congregational prayers.

7. Masjid Al-Ikhlas Uijeongbu

Rating: 4.6 (55 reviews)
Location: 19 Simin-ro 132beon-gil, Uijeongbu

Located in Uijeongbu, north of Seoul, Masjid Al-Ikhlas serves the Muslim community in the area and is open 24 hours. It is a well-maintained mosque, providing a peaceful atmosphere for prayer and reflection.

Halal Restaurants in Seoul/Gangnam-Seocho

Seoul is home to a growing number of Halal restaurants. Whether you're a local or a visitor looking for Halal-certified food, Seoul has various options to satisfy your cravings. Here’s a guide to some of the best Halal dining spots across the city:

1. Inamjang (Myeong-dong Branch)

Rating: 4.2/5 (431 reviews)
Price: ₩10,000–20,000
Cuisine: Korean
Location: 39 Myeongdong 9-gil
Hours: Open until 10 PM

Inamjang offers traditional Korean food in a cozy atmosphere. Located in the bustling Myeongdong area, it’s a popular spot for both tourists and locals looking to enjoy authentic Korean cuisine.

2. Kampungku Restaurant

Rating: 4.3/5 (1,414 reviews)
Price: ₩10,000–20,000
Cuisine: Halal
Location: 16-4 Namsan-dong 2(i)-ga
Hours: Open until 9:30 PM

Kampungku specializes in Halal-certified food and is well-known for its delicious Malaysian and Indonesian dishes. Its warm and welcoming ambiance makes it an excellent choice for dining with family or friends.

3. HAJJ Korea Halal Food

Rating: 4.4/5 (357 reviews)
Price: ₩10,000–20,000
Cuisine: Halal
Location: Usadan-ro 10-gil, 39
Hours: Open until 11 PM

This restaurant, located near the famous Itaewon Mosque, offers a wide variety of Halal Korean dishes. While it doesn't offer delivery services, it provides a perfect dine-in experience for those exploring the Itaewon area.

4. EID Halal Korean Food (حلا)

Rating: 4.5/5 (956 reviews)
Price: ₩10,000–20,000
Cuisine: Halal, Korean
Location: 15 Usadan-ro 10-gil
Hours: Open until 9 PM

A staple in Itaewon, EID offers authentic Korean dishes prepared with Halal ingredients. This cozy restaurant is a must-visit for anyone looking to try traditional Korean food with a Halal twist.

5. Petra Restaurant

Rating: 4.6/5 (1,865 reviews)
Price: ₩20,000–30,000
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Location: 33 Noksapyeong-daero 40-gil
Hours: Open until 9 PM

If you’re in the mood for Middle Eastern cuisine, Petra Restaurant serves an array of Halal dishes including shawarma, falafel, and kebabs, all made from fresh, high-quality ingredients.

6. The Halal Guys

Rating: 4.2/5 (1,023 reviews)
Price: ₩10,000–20,000
Cuisine: American Halal
Location: 187 Itaewon-ro
Hours: Open until 4 AM

The Halal Guys brings New York's famous street food to Seoul, offering their signature beef, chicken, and gyro platters with Halal-certified ingredients. Open until the early hours of the morning, it's a great spot for late-night cravings.

7. Yang Good Korean BBQ

Rating: 4.6/5 (1,202 reviews)
Price: ₩10,000–30,000
Cuisine: Korean BBQ
Location: Nonhyeon-ro 95-gil, 15
Hours: Opens at 4 PM

Yang Good is famous for its Halal-certified lamb dishes and Korean BBQ. A favorite among meat lovers, this restaurant is perfect for a traditional Korean barbecue experience without compromising on Halal standards.

8. Halal Korean Restaurant (Home Cooked Meal Gim Soensaeng)

Rating: 4.9/5 (258 reviews)
Price: ₩10,000–20,000
Cuisine: Halal
Location: Itaewon-dong, 34-19
Hours: Closes at 2 PM, reopens at 3 PM

Known for its home-cooked meals, this quaint restaurant offers authentic Halal Korean dishes. Its intimate and traditional setting makes it a great spot for those looking to enjoy a homemade meal in the heart of Seoul.

9. Siti Sarah Korean Melayu & Egyptian Halal Food

Rating: 4.1/5 (409 reviews)
Price: ₩10,000–20,000
Cuisine: Malay, Egyptian
Location: Usadan-ro 10-gil, 7
Hours: Open until 2 AM

For a fusion of Malay and Egyptian flavors, Siti Sarah is an excellent choice. With late-night hours, it’s a perfect stop for night owls exploring Itaewon.

10. Nirvana Halal Indian Kitchen

Rating: 4.5/5 (360 reviews)
Price: ₩10,000–20,000
Cuisine: Indian
Location: 58 Insadong 8-gil, Gwanhun-dong
Hours: Closes at 2:30 PM, reopens at 5 PM

Nirvana offers a taste of India in Seoul, serving a wide variety of Halal Indian dishes from curries to naan. Located in the historic Insadong neighborhood, it’s an ideal stop after a day of sightseeing.

Muslim Friendly Hotels